Customer Reviews

The Black Male Handbook: A Blueprint for Life

5 star:		(11)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
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1 star:		(1)

 

 

Kevin Powell's book, The Black Male Handbook is a collection of essays that provide insight and instruction on how black males can transform their lives from mediocrity and turmoil to success and peace of mind.

I like the fact that the book covers areas such as spirituality, health, finances, mental health, political awarness and relationships. Presenting the information in the form of essays made it an effective and user friendly book.

There were many concepts and recommendations that resonated with me. First, I liked the fact that the first essay talked about establishing a spiritual foundation because that's the key to transforming your life in all other areas. Loved the following quote in the book,

"Spirituality is the manifestation of this divine connection in one's daily life."

Unfortunately too many people don't practice what they preach and I love the fact that this book is focused on changing nonproductive behaviors into life-enhancing ones.

Secondly, I was glad to see that the book discussed redefining black man hood where black men are encouraged to ask for help and to express their feelings. Contrary to popular opinion, getting help is strength, not weakness. More black males need to recognize that.

Further, I was impressed that the contributing authors were men enough to talk about their past mistakes and use them as opportunities to grow.
Kevin Powell's essay was particularly moving. I admire his courage to discuss his story of domestic violence and how he was able to learn from it and to become a better man.

Lastly, I am glad that the book embraces the philosophy of 'each one teach one' and also embraces the attitude of collectively moving forward as a Black Community and being accountable to each other.

This handbook serves as a great guide to helping black men from all walks of life realize their inherent greatness and to walk the Earth as the Kings that they are.

John Hinds
Author of "What's In Your Water?"

In this age of "It's all about me", it's great to read a body of work that communicates the cost of "overcoming" for people of color in America. In pursuit of the American dream, something got lost along the way and Kevin Powell has the audacity to "call it out." What got lost was dignity and respect by and for both males and females. What really disappeared was a sense of "community" - that unspoken commradery of being from the same place in the same time, of sharing a season with neighbors, relatives and friends. What got lost was a sense of belonging. This compilation of essays by different men of color from different perspectives and backgrounds speaks to the urgency of the problem. More importantly, practical solutions are offered that have a probability of success. I applaud Mr. Powell for the effort and the desire to be an ambassador of "what should be" and not "what has been".

Linda Alexander

Let me start by saying that any material that helps in the development of the black male is something I am drawn to. There are many obstacles so a blueprint for my black male child can only aid in his growth. Also, he loves Hill Harper and has read his previous book, 'Letters to a Young Brother' so he was excited to read this book.

He LOVED it! Throughout each chapter he would asked questions, shared thoughts and state affirmations. He learned a lot. Therefore, I do highly recommend this book to all. Enjoy!

I bought this book for my 21 year old son and he loves it! Astonishing for a mom because usually he thinks I'm over doing it with advise because "He knows everything". The book is such a hit he has been recommended it to all members of his Clique/Crew. It will now be my staple gift to young black man and some older ones in my travels. A must read for men and women.

We have all said at on time or another I wish somebody had told me . . ., well this the information our young men can benifit from that many of us missed out on in our youth. This is an excellent resource. But it remains true no book can teach unless it is opened and read. I highly recommend this work to any and all those who are concerned about elevating the status, thinking and position of Black men in this society and the eyes of a just GOD who expects and encourages us to love and show love.

This book is a must read for every black male in the USA. I loved the book and its so motivational. It should be a requirement for high school students especially those born and raised without a father.

This is a must read for every black male and every single mother with black male children... I enjoyed this book and I will be purchasing more to distribute out to all the black males that I know will read it...

I received my order in precisely the condition that was given and the timeframe of shipment was extremely fast. I am very satisfied with my purchase and would definitely order from this seller again.

An absolute must read for every Father, Brother, Son, Nephew, Grandson, Husband, Lover, Co-worker of color. Buy this book and give to not only the men in your life , but the women as well.
It made me open my eyes to the plight of black men in this country.

This book was a great example of how people in the community can come together to deliver a much needed message of empowerment. As one of the contributors, I was happy be involved within this project. I hope that my piece on financial literacy will be used by all who read it, and the entire book as well.

My other book "Living in the Village" has a more expanded message the not only relates to Black Males...but ALL of America. It is time that all races, creeds, cultures, religions, and genders learn how to work together for true empowerment in ALL of America.